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GIMM Festival 2026: A Convergence of Global Microbiology Experts in Lisbon

The second edition of the GIMM Festival is set to take place in Lisbon from September 17 to 19, 2026, bringing together renowned scientists to discuss the evolving landscape of microbiology. Under the theme "Microbes, the Questions of the Future," the event aims to explore the intricate relationships between microorganisms, human health, and ecological sustainability. As the world grapples with challenges like pandemics and antimicrobial resistance, understanding how these tiny entities adapt and communicate has never been more critical.

The festival will welcome an impressive lineup of speakers, including 2020 Nobel Laureate Charles M. Rice, whose groundbreaking work led to the discovery of the hepatitis C virus and facilitated the development of effective antiviral treatments. Other confirmed speakers include Yasmine Belkaid, President of the Pasteur Institute, recognized for her pioneering research on the microbiome and immune system interactions; Bonnie Bassler from Princeton University, a leading figure in quorum sensing—the process by which bacteria communicate chemically; and Isabel Gordo from GIMM, who focuses on bacterial evolution within the human body and mechanisms of antibiotic resistance.

Throughout the three-day event, participants—researchers, students, and the public—will engage in discussions on some of the most pressing scientific challenges of the 21st century. Topics will cover critical areas such as host-microbe interactions, antimicrobial resistance, the evolution of bacteria, emerging viruses, pandemic preparedness, and the engineering of microorganisms through synthetic biology.

The World Health Organization has flagged antimicrobial resistance as one of the foremost threats to global health, predicting millions of deaths in upcoming decades if effective measures are not taken. Concurrently, the advancements in microbiome research and genetic modification capabilities are revolutionizing fields like medicine, biotechnology, and environmental sustainability. This opens up new avenues for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.

Maria Manuel Mota, CEO of the Gulbenkian Institute of Molecular Medicine, stated, "The microscopic world significantly impacts our health, ecosystems, and the future of biotechnology. The GIMM Festival aims to connect researchers with society to discuss how these discoveries can shape the future."

Lisbon is rapidly establishing itself as a hub for scientific dialogue through this festival, reinforcing its position as a meeting point for cutting-edge research and innovation in microbiology and global health. With a program tailored to address the critical issues facing humanity today, the GIMM Festival encourages collaboration among scientists and inspires future generations of researchers.

For those interested in attending, more details on the complete program and registration can be found at www.gimmfest.pt.

About the Gulbenkian Institute of Molecular Medicine (GIMM)

The Gulbenkian Institute of Molecular Medicine (GIMM) is a prominent biomedical research institute formed through the merger of the Gulbenkian Institute of Science (IGC) and the João Lobo Antunes Institute of Molecular Medicine (iMM). Committed to advancing knowledge and developing innovative health solutions, GIMM aspires to become a global leader in life sciences and biomedical research.

About GIMM Festival

The GIMM Festival is an annual event held in Lisbon that celebrates science as a catalyst for social transformation. Organized by GIMM, the festival gathers national and international experts to discuss critical global health challenges, promoting connections between cutting-edge research, biomedical innovation, and society.

For press inquiries, please contact:
Rita Resendes
Comunicaciones y responsable de relaciones con los medios de Fundação GIMM
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +351 916 519 630